This article examines the need for the federal government of Australia to respond to issues affecting crime victims. It is recognised that the government response to crime victims has traditionally been left to the state governments but six federal crime victims issues are identified and discussed, that support the proposal for a dedicated crime victims unit in the federal government. The identified issues include: cross-jurisdictional issues; crimes occurring in other places where Australia has jurisdiction; crimes committed against Australians whilst overseas; International instruments regarding crime victims; and federal crimes that have victims such as trafficking.